Whenever a new year rolls around I start to think about the basics. Maybe it’s because we all need something simple after the rush and bustle of the holidays, or because I’m thinking about all the people resolving to learn to knit in the new year.
If you’re looking to get back to basics, or starting to learn to knit, here are some great garter stitch patterns for you to try.
There’s nothing more basic than a garter stitch scarf, and this one from Ysolda Teague (via Ravelry) is a great one. It uses bulky yarn so even if you’re new to knitting you can finish it pretty quickly.
How about a hat to go with your scarf? This one from Underground Crafter is knit flat, so it’s a perfect first hat pattern if you’re new to knitting or aren’t ready to try knitting in the round yet. This one uses worsted weight yarn.
If you don’t want to knit a hat, try these chunky garter stitch headbands from Marianna’s Lazy Daisy Days. The twist increases the skill level slightly but it’s well explained in the pattern (and of course you could just knit a strip of garter stitch as long as you need to fit around your head if you don’t want to try the twist).
Projects for the home are great early knitting projects because they don’t have to come out perfect to still be useful. This garter stitch dishcloth from Yarnspirations uses four strands of yarn held together so you can whip it up in a flash.
Give your garter stitch a different look with stripes. This pretty little blanket uses 19 colors of sport-weight yarn, or you can use a heavier yarn to make a bigger blanket. This is an ideal stash buster because you can use even more colors if you like. The pattern is from Crochet Objet on Etsy.
The Beginner Baby Cardigan pattern from Gina Michele is worked in one piece, then folded in half and seamed. This is a fun way to knit your first sweater and makes a super cute baby gift.
Looking for an adult-sized sweater instead? This garter stitch sweater from Handy Little Me uses super bulky yarn for a graphic look. This link is for the men’s version of the pattern but you can find women’s sizes here.